20somethings are coming back to libraries

Too often people between the ages of 19 and 30 have been left out of many programs in public libraries. A few years ago, The East Baton Rouge Library wanted to change that. As a cooperative effort between reference and teen services, the library is providing targeted programs to this group so often dubbed twentysomethings. The library provides an array of activities at various locations around the city from game nights to crafts to informative classes.

As someone who is rapidly approaching my mid-thirties, I have attending many of these gatherings despite being slightly out of the target age range. I think my favorite one was the coffee and tea tasting. Two local businesses: Pure Delight Coffee and Red Stick Spice Co came to educate us about coffee and tea. I also really enjoyed some of the board game night where I learned how to play Settlers of Catan.

I think efforts like this are important for libraries to embrace. Too often, they have programs that appeal to kids and families and older adults. But I’m happy to see that the younger people around Baton Rouge coming out to these programs. It’s great to see a place for people to meet each other besides bars or restaurants. Recently, I joined this team and have started planning events like this at my branch. I like coming with ideas that will appeal to a wide range of young people who live close to my branch. Check out upcoming events for twnetysomethings on Facebook or on the library’s website www.ebrpl.com

About Theresa

I am a reference librarian currently working in North Carolina. I have always been passionate about history, education and the value of books in all of their forms. I also love how quickly we can access information through the immediacy of the web, especially social networks like Facebook and Twitter. I look forward to growing in my chosen profession.